Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

Matt the History Nerd was a terrific tour guide!! Not only did he have a thorough knowledge of the history of Arlington, he volunteered interesting facts about how and why the cemetery developed and what the differences in gravestones meant. We got to learn many stories of famous and ordinary heroes, and visit all of the best views and overlooks. Matt had the tour timed perfectly to show up at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier right before changing of the guard and get the perfect view. He then led us immediately to another spot to also have the best view of the wreath laying ceremony. He explained all of what we were going to do each step of the way so that we knew what to expect, even sending me a message the day before to let me know exactly where in the visitor’s center to meet, what he would be wearing, and a reminder to bring drinks. At the end of the tour we asked for some extra information, directions to our next spot, and lunch recommendations, and he kindly sent links to all of them. We plan to be back in the DC area next spring, and hope we can take another tour with Matt!!

Matt really knows this cemetery. He was knowledgeable, entertaining, and knew random history facts about the DC area that he was able to work into the tour (I don’t want to spoil it for you, you’ll have to go check it out yourself!!) Our group had people of all activity level levels and he managed to make it work for everyone. In addition, it was during the heat wave and he made sure he stopped us in the shade when he was speaking and included water breaks. He is a self proclaimed history nerd and he deserves the title. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot!

We had a great tour with Matt! He was incredibly knowledgeable about the cemetery and gave very interesting anecdotes. The pacing was perfect and our view of the changing of the guard was unmatched.

Our tour guide Matt started communicating with us the day before because of the heat wave in DC. He reminded us about water, and gave us instructions on where to meet him… right down to the outfit he was wearing. He knew so much about the cemetery and took some great photos of us with the view from the top. He accommodated the different physical needs of his group and gave rest and water stops because of the heat. Matt speaks very clearly, is easy to understand, is knowledgeable and clearly loves his job!!

Absolutely spectacular tour. Matt is extremely knowledgeable about all things Arlington, very engaging and fun, will do this every time I visit. I know he has other tours as well so hoping to do those as well next time I’m in DC. Cannot recommend him and this tour highly enough!

Matt did a great job guiding the group. He is very knowledgeable and very patient. He had to navigate the group in 100+ degree heat and the noise of jets flying overhead. I recommend this tour with Matt.

Matt was an excellent guide. He was sure to allow plenty of shaded stops along the way to our destinations to keep us cool. He was extremely knowledgeable and a nice departure from the tour trams which have long waits and move too quickly to appreciate this hallowed ground.

I joined the tour with my 11 year old daughter. Our guide, Matt (a passionate historian and a former middle school teacher) made the whole experience highly engaging and easily absorbable for all the participants. Matt is very approachable and has the broad knowledge. He was able to answer our questions in a very informative manner. He also shared the history of the Arlington Cemetery intertwined with interesting facts and individual stories of the people related to it or laid there to rest. The selection/number of sites to visit and the pace/length of the tour were just right too. Overall, it was an enjoyable and educational experience. A nice price discount was also offered for the children participants. I would highly recommend this tour!

Matt was very knowledgeable and courteous.

Excellent tour, first class tour guide, knew his stuff, friendly, punctual, kept us up to date at all times… gave great tour - saw loads, well worth money. Definitely recommend